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Isovaleraldehyde

Isovaleraldehyde, formally 3-methylbutanal, is a pungent liquid that occurs in natural oils such as orange, lemon, peppermint, and eucalyptus. It is also found in processed foods such as beer, cheese, and chocolate. Its odor has been described variously from “apple-like” to “suffocating”.

In addition to its natural sources, isovaleraldehyde can be synthesized in several ways, including

the oxidation of isoamyl alcohol with Na2Cr2O7 and H2SO4,

the hydroformylation of isobutene,

the isomerization of 3-methyl-3-butene-1-ol catalyzed by CuO–ZnO, and

the reaction between isobutene and formaldehyde.

Isovaleraldehyde’s strong aroma makes it useful (in small amounts) as a perfume component. So . . . perfume, chocolate, and beer . . . what else could you possibly need for Valentine’s Day?